LASR.net Homepage




Menu

Wichita, Kansas

Not a typical riverside residence in the least, but definitely one of the boldest homes built during the early period of Wichita's illustrious growth is the Campbell Castle. Built in 1888 by Burton Harvey Campbell, this architectural masterpiece was duplicated from architectural drawings of the "mother" castle which was originally constructed in the foothills of Scotland. But it is more than mortar and limestone, it is the result of one man's dream and several architects' expertise.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places for it architectural significance, the Scottish castle has been delicately restored after years of neglect to its original beauty and splendor. When the Campbells left in 1910, the mansion was bought by Walter Morris. Fifty years later it became the property of Maye Crumm, who began calling it Crumm Castle. For a period of time it housed the Belle Carter School, an institution which was begun and operated by Crumm. However, in the 1970's the upkeep of The Castle became a constant struggle, and to raise funds for its survival, the 28-room mansion was opened to the public for tours of the main areas.

In 1994, Terry and Paula Lowry purchased the property. Out of respect for Campbell and his vision of over 100 years ago, they returned his name to the structure - The Castle Inn Riverside, "The Historic Campbell Castle." Damaged stones were painstakingly removed and replaced with new stones carved by expert masons. The woodwork and floors have been brought back to their original luster. The roof has been reslated with tiles from Vermont. The electrical and plumbing systems were completely replaced, and the third floor ballroom level was converted into five luxurious suites. The Carriage House, which had been legally condemned by the city and was crumbling, was rebuilt and now houses three suites and the Lowrys' apartment. What once were structures composed of stone, mortar, wood, and glass, The Castle and Carriage House have now been reconstructed using massive steel beam supports which will fortify this magnificent landmark for scores of years to come.

Now you can escape to the romance of another era, of sunlight shining through pastel stained glass onto intricate woodwork and exquisite antiques in this Inn along the Riverside.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Veterans Memorial Park

Veterans memorial park is a tribute to the men and women of Kansas who answered the Nation's call to defend our freedom in the U.S. Armed Forces and Merchant Marines, from World War I to Vietnam. One park memorial includes the names of 102

Wichita, KS Memorials

Wichita Art Museum

The Wichita Art Museum (WAM), showcasing American art, is the largest art museum in the state of Kansas. Nationally renowned for its outstanding collection of American art, the WAM is home to three centuries of American masterpieces and more than 7,000

Wichita, KS Arts

The Castle

Not a typical riverside residence in the least, but definitely one of the boldest homes built during the early period of Wichita's illustrious growth is the Campbell Castle. Built in 1888 by Burton Harvey Campbell, this architectural masterpiece was duplicated from architectural drawings of the "

Wichita, KS Historic Homes

Botanica-The Wichita Gardens

Come and discover a place to revive your senses. At the end of Museum Boulevard, insulated from city bustle, you'll experience an unfamiliar calm. It is a complete sensory experience. What jars the senses fully awake is the array of color. Nearly 10

Wichita, KS Museums

The Mid-America All Indian Center

The Mid-America All-Indian Center preserves the heritage of the American Indian tribes of North America and is located at the confluence of the Big and Little Arkansas Rivers, on land where the Wichita tribe camped more than 100 years ago.

Wichita, KS Museums

Things to do near Wichita, KS